principal means of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principal means of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the primary method or way of achieving something. Example: "The principal means of communication in our organization is through email."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Rivers provide the principal means of internal transport.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rivers are the principal means of inland transport.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The principal means of transport is old, underpowered buses and horse and trap.

The Guardian

Yugerten said Facebook was the principal means of getting people together.

The Guardian

Feet are the principal means of locomotion along the capital's broad, traffic-free avenues.

The New York Times

Swords are waved, but poison is the principal means of mayhem.

The New York Times - Arts

Outside the city, property taxes are the principal means of financing education.

The New York Times

The American "has freedom for his principal means of action"; the Russian, "servitude...

The New York Times - Books

Frank stole bread and milk, which became the family's principal means of support.

The New York Times - Books

In the past week, she had become a principal means of support for her community.

The New Yorker

In Europe, conservatives have been successful in making fiscal consolidation the principal means of stimulating growth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "principal means of", ensure that it clearly indicates the most important or effective method among several possibilities. Avoid using it when there is only one possible method, as it implies a choice.

Common error

Avoid using "principal means of" when a simpler phrase like "main way" or "primary method" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex and less accessible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principal means of" functions as a noun phrase modifier. It identifies the most important method, tool, or avenue by which something is achieved. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its application in diverse contexts, such as transportation, communication, and economic activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

28%

News & Media

42%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "principal means of" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that signifies the most important method or way of achieving something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and versatility. It is frequently found in encyclopedias, news media, and scientific publications, indicating its applicability across various domains. While generally neutral to formal in tone, it's essential to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in contexts where simpler alternatives would suffice. When employing "principal means of", ensure it accurately reflects the primary method among several possibilities, enhancing clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary method for

Replaces "principal means" with "primary method", emphasizing the methodology aspect.

chief way to

Substitutes "principal means" with "chief way", highlighting the most important or effective approach.

main avenue for

Replaces "means" with "avenue", suggesting a route or channel for achieving something.

key instrument in

Emphasizes the instrumental aspect, portraying the phrase as a vital tool or device.

leading approach to

Highlights the prominence and direction of the method.

foremost strategy for

Presents the phrase as the most important plan or tactic.

essential mechanism for

Highlights the fundamental process or system involved.

prime facilitator of

Focuses on the role of enabling or making something easier.

central vehicle for

Metaphorically positions the phrase as a transport or carrier for achieving an objective.

dominant mode of

Indicates that the method is the most prevalent or influential.

FAQs

How can I use "principal means of" in a sentence?

Use "principal means of" to indicate the most important way something is accomplished. For example, "For North American Indians and early settlers, snowshoes were a "principal means of" winter travel."

What are some alternatives to "principal means of"?

You can use alternatives like "primary method for", "chief way to", or "main avenue for" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "principal means of" or "primary means of"?

Both "principal means of" and "primary means of" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Principal" often implies the most important, while "primary" suggests the first in order or sequence. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "principal means of" and "a means to an end"?

"Principal means of" describes the main method or way of achieving something. "A means to an end", on the other hand, refers to something done only to achieve a further purpose, not valued in itself. The former focuses on method, the latter on purpose.